GCSE CHEMISTRY
The AQA course is taught. The areas studied are as follows:
- Classifying Materials – states of matter, atomic structure and bonding
- Changing Materials – Useful products from oil, Organic Chemistry, useful products from metal ores, useful products from rocks, industrial process, useful products from air, equations to represent reactions, quantitative chemistry, changes to the atmosphere, The rock record.
- Patterns of Behaviour – the periodic table, acids and alkalis, chemistry of water, metals and non-metals, compounds of alkali metals and group 7, detection and identification, rates of reaction, reversible reactions and energy changes in reactions.
How will I be assessed?
There is one written paper (two and a quarter hours). The paper comprises of compulsory structured questions.
Coursework contributes 20% of the final exam. The practical work required for this is completed in class time. Pupils are assessed through two investigations. Four skills are assessed: Planning, Obtaining evidence, Analysis and considering evidence, Evaluation.
The requirement of ideas and evidence section for Scientific Enquiry is taught by considering historical and contemporary contexts, e.g. Mendeleev’s work on the periodic table. This contributes 5% to the final exam.
Why study Chemistry?
By studying the ways of converting natural raw materials (air, water, oil, salt and minerals) into useful or desirable products such as plastics, fertilisers and metal alloys, chemists gain a better understanding of the world around them. They become aware of the contributions and applications of Chemistry in everyday life and the responsibilities of scientists to the community.
During the course pupils are helped to develop a logical approach to decision-making and problem solving by applying chemical knowledge and understanding in unfamiliar situations. This enables pupils to become equipped with skills that will be important in decision making throughout life.
Chemistry is an experimental science and quite a large proportion of the course is devoted to practical work. Practical lessons are used both to aid the understanding and to support theories. Pupils gain knowledge about the importance of accurate observations and recording of results. Practicals also enable pupils to become aware of the potential hazards of chemicals. In the experimental work pupils are taught to manage their working environment and justify any action taken to control risks. Pupils learn to cope with unfamiliar situations and becoming equipped with important skills that are vital to meet challenges in a changing world.
FAQs
Stop reading and think about how well you cope when faced with decisions. Are you confident at analysing different scenarios, and then are you able to present your argument well?
A good chemist has these skills!
What do you know about Chemistry so far?
You have already been studying Chemistry for one year, so you know it is interesting and exciting. The GCSE course will be enjoyable; you will have the opportunity to gain many practical skills. If you have achieved 50% in class tests and homework you have the ability to do well.
How will GCSE Chemistry help you?
A Chemistry qualification is a passport to many careers.
“Not all Chemists wear white coats”
If you only want to take one Science, Chemistry is a good intermediate between Physics and Biology. It is often referred to as the central Science.
If you are taking two Sciences, will you want to study any at A Level? If you do, Chemistry GCSE will be recommended.
We would be happy to answer any questions that will aid your decision. If in doubt talk to a Chemistry Teacher!
A Level Introduction
The department offers the AQA AS- level and A level.
Requirements
The course builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills in GSCE Double Award Science. It assumes candidates have a good pass in Separate Science Chemistry or Double Award Science. Candidates should average a good mark in all the AS units to continue to A2.
Aims
- Develop knowledge and understanding of the concepts of chemistry, and the skills needed for the use of these in new and changing situations;
- Develop an understanding of the link between theory and experiment;
- Be aware of how advances in information technology and instrumentation are used in chemistry;
- Appreciate the contributions of chemistry to society and the responsible use of scientific knowledge and evidence;
- Sustain and develop enjoyment and interest in chemistry;
- Bring together knowledge of ways in which different areas of chemistry relate to each other.
What use is Chemistry?
Chemistry is often called the central science. It links with all the other sciences and underpins many branches of technology. If you are thinking of a university education, look at the list of A- level requirements for a range of university subjects. Chemistry is a good choice if you want to keep your options open.
Students will find that there are transferable skills in A- level chemistry and some arts A- levels. It has been traditional to combine chemistry with other sciences or maths, but combining with arts subjects can also be good. If in doubt of combinations, please ask!
Chemistry is every where!
You hope to pass your driving test in the not too distant future, but have you stopped to consider the impact of your first car on the environment?
Good job the chemical engineering community has!
When your children drive they are not likely to use petrol as fuel.
Your generation has the potential to develop alternative forms of power and overcoming pollution issues!
Specification at a glance
AS
AS – all students study 3 units.
- Atomic Structure, Bonding and Periodicity
- Foundation Physical and Inorganic Chemistry
- Introduction to Organic Chemistry and Practical Centre Assessed Coursework (15% AS mark)
AS – Three one-hour papers. One for each unit in the summer of the L6th.
A2
A2 – Students must obtain a pass in the all the AS units and three further units.
- Further Physical and Organic Chemistry
- Thermodynamics and Further Inorganic Chemistry
- Synoptic Objective Questions and Practical Assessed Coursework(5% A level Mark)
A level – Unit 4 will be taken in the January of the U6th. The duration of this exam is 90 minutes. Unit 5 is two hours and the Unit 6 is one hour. These are taken in the summer of the U6th.
Coursework
All coursework is completed in class. There are four skill areas.
- Planning
- Implementing
- Analysing evidence and drawing conclusions
- Evaluating evidence and procedures
The department is keen to monitor progress and address areas of weakness. We have regular tests and an open door policy. Extra assistance is offered when required.